Jeremiah 18:13
Therefore thus saith the LORD; Ask ye now among the heathen, who hath heard such things: the virgin of Israel hath done a very horrible thing.
Jeremiah 18:13 · King James Version
Meaning
In this verse from the book of Jeremiah, the Lord is expressing his disbelief and disappointment in the actions of the people of Israel. The term "the virgin of Israel" symbolizes the purity and innocence of the nation. The Lord is essentially questioning who among the other nations has witnessed such a shocking betrayal from a people who were meant to be devoted to him. The verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and breaking the covenant. The phrase "hath done a very horrible thing" emphasizes the severity of their transgressions and underscores the gravity of their actions. It serves as a warning to the people of Israel, and to readers today, about the importance of remaining faithful to God and his commandments. This verse is a call to repentance and a reminder of the consequences of straying from the path of righteousness.
Theological Overview
One important aspect of the theological interpretation of the verse 'Therefore thus saith the LORD; Ask ye now among the heathen, who hath heard such things: the virgin of Israel hath done a very horrible thing.' is the significance of the term "the virgin of Israel" in this context. In the Hebrew language, the word "virgin" is often used to symbolize purity and innocence. In this verse, the prophet is using this term to describe the nation of Israel, implying that it was intended to be a pure and faithful people dedicated to serving God. However, by committing the "very horrible thing," which likely refers to idolatry and disobedience to God's commands, Israel has failed to live up to this ideal. This interpretation serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faithfulness and obedience in the relationship between God and His people.
Jeremiah 18:13 in other translations
American Standard Version
Therefore thus saith Jehovah: Ask ye now among the nations, who hath heard such things; the virgin of Israel hath done a very horrible thing.
World English Bible
Therefore thus says Yahweh: Ask now among the nations, who has heard such things; the virgin of Israel has done a very horrible thing.
Douay-Rheims
Therefore thus saith the Lord: Ask among the nations: Who hath heard such horrible things, as the virgin of Israel hath done to excess?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Therefore thus saith the Lord, Aske now among the heathen, who hath heard such thinges? the virgin of Israel hath done very filthily.